brainblurb – the adaptability quotient

One of the main reasons why I started the genAlpha Project is the fact that our (global) education system is no longer adequate to prepare our kids (read future workforce) for the future of work.

However, it is not only the next generation (alpha) but all of us in the current job market. That is if you are planning to stay relevant in the job market in the next 20+ years.

The writing is on the wall and there are a number of obvious drivers for the changes ahead. The numbers and stats differ as they do, but you get the idea.

These stats are from EY’s report – the future of work.

The global working population is expected to increase by 485 million people between 2017 and 2027

Millennials are going to be 75% of the global workforce by 2025

Three-quarters of millennials want to work flexibly and still be on track for a promotion

Since 2000, 52% of fortune 500 companies have gone bankrupt, been acquired or ceased to exist due to digital disruption

More than half ( 62% ) of companies use flexible workers (freelancers, temps and agency workers

75 % of today’s schoolchildren will eventually be working in jobs or areas that have yet to be created

Uuups. Now what?

Well, the world continues to change with developments in globalisation, demographics, technology and regulation. These disruptive forces require organisations to change rapidly — and they need their people to be agile and adaptable to that change.

Enter AQ – the Adaptability Quotient – the what?

Next to IQ and EQ, AQ is the new kid on the block.

A study released by ForbesBooks, is putting a spotlight on the Adaptability Quotient (AQ). “Adapt or Die: Why Corporate Giants Failed, How to Make Sure You Don’t,” It offers insights into how the AQ of a company plays a critical role in its long-term survivability. And the concepts the study recommends doesn’t only apply to large enterprises.

In today’s digital, connected and global ecosystem, small businesses also have to adapt if they want to succeed. And no matter what your size, the paper says companies have to cultivate a culture of adaptability with a fundamental strategic shift to make it happen. Fast Company claims it is “the key to the future of work,” and not many people or businesses are familiar with it.

So AQ is your ability to adapt to and thrive in an environment of change. Despite the fact that “change is the only constant,” many of us have trouble accepting and dealing with it.

People with a high AQ recognize the need for change and adjust accordingly. This helps them to be more resilient, which boosts both their success and their well-being.

People with a high AQ accept that change is inevitable and recognize that the sooner they adjust to a new reality, the better.